Document Reference: Morrison Hershfield April, Wainfleet Wind Energy Project, Renewable Energy Approval Project Description Report.

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2 Document Reference: Morrison Hershfield April, Wainfleet Wind Energy Project, Renewable Energy Approval Project Description Report. Submitted to the Ontario Ministry of the Environment. Project No

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS Wainfleet Wind Energy Project PREAMBLE PROJECT DESCRIPTION REPORT Project Proponent Wainfleet Wind Energy Inc Project Developer IPC Energy Inc Purpose of the Project Energy Source, Classification and Name Plate Capacity Project Location and Land Ownership Project Facilities, Equipment and Technology Meteorological Tower Wind Turbines Access Roads and Crane Pads Collector System, Switching Station and Distribution Line Maintenance Building Project Activities Development Phase Construction Phase Operations Phase Decommissioning Phase Environmental Effects that May Result from the Project Preliminary Records Review and Pre Consultation General Summary of Environmental Effects Role of Consultation in Determination of Effects Summary Table of Potential Environmental Effects... 8 References...13 Appendices APPENDIX A Study Area Map APPENDIX B Environmental Components Map APPENDIX C Aerial Map

4 PREAMBLE Wainfleet Wind Energy Project The proposed Wainfleet Wind Energy Project by Wainfleet Wind Energy Inc, the proponent is subject to Ontario Regulation 359/09 s (REA) under Part V.0.1 of the Ontario Environmental Protection Act and is seeking a from the Ministry of the Environment (MOE). This Project Description Report is a required document under the REA and is available from the proponent upon request. This document has been filed with the MOE in accordance with S.14 of the REA.

5 1.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION REPORT 1.1 Project Proponent Wainfleet Wind Energy Inc. Wainfleet Wind Energy Project While the Wainfleet Wind Energy Project would represent Wainfleet Wind Energy Inc. s first foray into the field of wind power generation, the Loeffen family (owners of Wainfleet Wind Energy, Inc.) have a long history of successfully diversifying and employing technology to increase the profitability of their operations. Loeffen Farms has also demonstrated an ongoing commitment to environmental and ecological innovation since its establishment in the 1950s and the move to incorporate green wind power generation to their business reflects the use of innovation and technological advancement while demonstrating the family s ongoing commitment toward sustainable and environmentally friendly operations. 1.2 Project Developer IPC Energy Inc. IPC Energy (IPC), the developer, on behalf of the proponent, Wainfleet Wind Energy Inc., is proposing to develop the Wainfleet Wind Energy Project, located south of the Community of Wainfleet, in Wainfleet Township, in Niagara Region, Ontario. IPC Energy works closely with landowners, municipalities and other partners to develop, build and operate energy projects across Canada and internationally, not only for our own projects, but as developers for community projects and other investors. IPC believes that wind energy will provide a safe, viable and economic alternative to other forms of electrical generation as well as becoming a supplement to existing renewable energy such as hydro electric. Wind power is already an important component of energy in Europe, and is becoming a major industry in Canada. More information on IPC can be found at: IPC Energy is an Ontario based corporation formed in 2004 to provide wind power solutions to famers and local business groups. It is 100% Canadian owned with its shareholders committed to delivering efficient and cost effective solutions in an environmentally and technically responsible manner. IPC Energy is a fully capable wind park developer covering all phases of the project life cycle from development, to construction and management. IPC is composed of a team of qualified engineers that provide civil, electrical and wind resource assessment to ensure projects provide maximum value with minimum impact on communities and the environment. IPC is developing nine projects that have submitted applications under the initial Feed In Tariff (FIT) program under the Green Energy and Economy Act and has a significant pipeline of projects at various stages of development in Canada and abroad. The study team may be contacted as follows: Mr. Sunny Galia Mr. Jonathan Veale Project Manager Consultant Project Manager IPC Energy Morrison Hershfield Limited 2550 Argentia Road, Suite 105 Suite 600, 235 Yorkland Blvd. Mississauga, ON L5N 5R1 Toronto, Ontario M2J 1T (office) (office) (fax) (fax) sunny@ipcenergy.ca jveale@morrisonhershfield.com 1 of 15

6 1.3 Purpose of the Project 2 of 15 Wainfleet Wind Energy Project The purpose of the Wainfleet Wind Energy Project is to assist the: Government of Canada in fulfilling its international commitments, while promoting a sustainable development initiative Government of Ontario in achieving its Green Energy Strategy and environmental commitments, while assisting with the Government s coal fired generation reduction program Government of Ontario in fulfilling its goals and principles of establishing a clean and healthy environment, economic growth, and strong communities for the long term (Provincial Policy Statement) Development of stable, long term electricity pricing for Ontario consumers Stimulation of economic and sustainable development in Niagara Region Encouragement of innovative and economically viable solutions to climate change 1.4 Energy Source, Classification and Name Plate Capacity The Wainfleet Wind Energy Project will convert the energy in the wind into electricity using wind turbine generators which will then feed into the Hydro One distribution system. This facility is classified as a Class 4 Wind Facility under the Renewable Energy Approval (REA) and is subject to the requirements of O.Reg 359/09. The proposed Wainfleet Wind Energy Project has a name plate capacity of 10 MW. The location of the Project and components are shown on Appendix A (Study Area Map). 1.5 Project Location and Land Ownership The proposed Wainfleet Wind Energy Project is located in south western Ontario, in the Township of Wainfleet, in Niagara Region. The Project Area is located south of the community of Wainfleet, north of the communities of Burnaby and Long Beach, and the community of Ostryhon Corners is located within the Study Area. More specifically, the Study Area is bound by: Side Road 30 CNR Rail Line Brawn Line Road Lakeshore Road Burnaby Road Regional Road #3 (Corners Road) Wilson Road Figure 1: View of the Project Area, a Characteristic View of the Study Area

7 Wainfleet Wind Energy Project The landscape of the study area consists of an area of approximately 3400ha and is generally agricultural in land use. Project components will be installed on privatelyowned agricultural lots within the study area. Appendix A presents the project location and boundaries. The land inside the project area is mostly flat, with an elevation of 174 m to 182 m above mean sea level. Within the Project Area, streams are relatively small, some only seasonal. No major rivers are found in the study area. There are some large drains in which water remains year round. All wind turbines are to be placed in open agricultural fields within the required setbacks from residences, natural heritage, water, and other features required under the REA. Most of these fields are tilled and planted seasonally with crops such as corn, oats, and soybeans. Field sizes vary considerably. The landscape is fragmented with open fields, roads, fences, planted crops and vegetation, and settlement areas. Figure 1, above, shows a characteristic view of the study area. There are few woodlots in and around the project area. The diversity of tree species is relatively low. 1.6 Project Facilities, Equipment and Technology The major components of the project are as follows: Meteorological Tower It is anticipated that four (4) to five (5) turbines will be built. Three turbine models are under consideration for this project: o Samsung, 2.5 MW o Gamesa G90, 2.0 MW o Vestas V100, 1.8 MW Collector systems, pad mount transformers (depending on the turbine model selected), and a distribution system to connect to the Hydro One distribution system. Pad mount 690v/27.6 kv step up transformers located at or near the base of each turbine. Buried and overhead 27.6kV electrical collector system, switching station, and ancillaries. Turbine access roads Temporary staging areas for erection of wind turbines A small Supervision Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)/operations building located at the switching station site Meteorological Tower A meteorological tower was installed within the study area to monitor wind speed, wind direction, temperature and humidity. The meteorological tower is approximately 60 m in height and was installed in August, The tower will remain for the duration of the Project to monitor wind turbine performance and environmental conditions. The tower is supported by guy wires. 3 of 15

8 1.6.2 Wind Turbines Wainfleet Wind Energy Project Three turbine models are under consideration for this project. The number of turbines is dependant on the number model selected; however, it is anticipated that four (4) to five (5) turbines will be installed. Several alternative turbine locations will be studied for Environmental Impact for flexibility to move turbine locations in future, if required. The turbine make and model under consideration are as follows: Samsung, 2.5 MW Gamesa G90, 2.0MW Vestas V100, 1.8 MW All turbines at the Wainfleet Wind Energy Project will meet Transport Canada requirements for aviation safety/lighting. Further details about the wind turbine proposed will be found in the Wind Turbine Report Access Roads and Crane Pads Access roads, most likely made of packed gravel, will be required to access each wind turbine location. The placement of these roads will seek to minimize impacts on the environment while providing for effective maintenance access to each turbine location. The transportation of machinery, turbine components and other equipment will be done over the existing municipal roads as far as possible. During the construction phase, each wind turbine s access road will end at a crane pad where the turbine will be constructed. The crane will only be required during construction of the turbine. The crane pad will be made of the same material as the access roads. The land used for the crane pad will be restored through standard industry practices and as per applicable rules and regulations at the end of the construction phase. The access roads will be compliant with Ontario and municipal regulations and will be built to support the weight of the equipment and heavy machinery required to build each wind turbine location Collector System, Switching Station and Distribution Line The energy from the Project will be collected via underground cabling and overhead lines and directed to a switching station. The switching station will connect directly to the local distribution system. The turbines will connect to the Hydro One distribution system. The power will be generated at approximately the 27.6 kv voltage level at the turbine step up to a local 27.6 kv collection system by A) a pad mounted transformer with no access to components from outside for Gamesa turbines. The approximate dimensions of these transformers are 2.5 meters in length and width at a height of 2 meters. The transformers are completely selfcontained with no need for exterior fencing; or, B) nacelle mounted transformers located in the nacelle housing of each turbine for Vestas turbines. If Vestas turbines are selected, pad mounted transformer stations will not be required. 4 of 15

9 Collector System Wainfleet Wind Energy Project The power generated at each of the wind turbine generators is transported through the collector system. The collector system consists of buried cables and overhead collector lines. In some cases, there may be some shared use with existing Hydro One lines and poles. The collector system will be built to Ontario standards Switching Station, Communications and SCADA The switching station will be a chain linked fenced area measuring approximately 1/4 acres. Within the fenced area, a switching station with a small pre fabricated building for SCADA will be equipped with full Supervision Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) capabilities. Beside the maintenance building, there will be a switching gear. The maintenance building will have a gravel shoulder surrounding it. The overhead cables coming out of the switching station will attach onto dead end poles from the fenced area for the switching station and will then attach to a metering pole Distribution System Electricity collected at the switching station will be transferred to Hydro One s distribution grid. A distribution line will have to be built to connect the station to the Hydro One grid. An appropriate protection system, as per the best industry practices as well as utility guidelines will be provided Maintenance Building The maintenance building will be located within the fenced area of the switching station. Aside from housing the SCADA system, the maintenance building may also be used as a spare parts warehouse. Maintenance tools used for generator alignment, tools for bolt torque and gearbox oil and tools used for oil filter change will also be stored in the maintenance building. There will be no permanent staff presence; therefore, a sanitation system will not be required. Only trained personnel will be permitted within the fenced in enclosure, including the maintenance building. 1.7 Project Activities This project includes four main phases: 1) Development Phase; 2) Construction Phase; 3) Operations Phase; and, 4) Decommissioning Phase. The following sections, to 1.6.4, present an overview of each phase s activities. Details on these phases can be found in the Consultation Report, Construction Plan Report, Design and Operations Report and Decommissioning Plan Report. 5 of 15

10 1.7.1 Development Phase Wainfleet Wind Energy Project This phase of the Project includes all of the assessments and plans required under the s (REA) requirements and best management practices. These generally include: the land acquisition, wind resource assessment, feasibility study, community relations, permitting, project description, public and agency consultation, natural heritage assessment, cultural heritage assessment, archaeological assessment, noise assessment, environmental impact assessment, construction plan, design and operations report, and decommissioning plan. The Development Phase is a critical step towards ensuring that the project achieves the Purpose outlined in Section 1.2. IPC is committed to deliver efficient and cost competitive energy in an environmentally responsible manner Construction Phase This phase of the Project includes all activities from initial work planning, to testing of the wind energy project before commissioning. The main activities during this phase include site prospecting, transportation, new road building, installation of wind turbines including concrete foundations, crane platforms, and installation of the electrical networks and switching station. Further details on the Construction phase will be found in the Construction Plan Report Operations Phase The operation phase s activities mainly relate to regular maintenance, operation and examination of the Project s facilities. On average, two visits are planned each year per turbine for routine maintenance; however, additional visits may be required. More significant operations and maintenance tasks are planned at 5, 10, and 15 years intervals, as dictated by the life cycle of the components. A major overhaul after 10 years of operation is generally required. Further details on the Operations phase will be found in the Design and Operations Report Decommissioning Phase The decommissioning phase of the project includes the disassembly, dismantling, and restoration of each wind turbine location. This will take place once the life cycle of the facility has expired. The decommissioning of the Wainfleet Wind Energy Project may require the dismantling of the components making up the wind energy project, such as the turbines, their concrete foundations, the switching station and the overhead and/or underground electrical network. Decommissioning will take place in accordance with the laws and regulations in effect. Further details on the Decommissioning phase will be found in the Decommissioning Plan Report. 6 of 15

11 Wainfleet Wind Energy Project 1.8 Environmental Effects that May Result from the Project Preliminary Records Review and Pre Consultation During the Development Phase of the project a Preliminary Records Review and Pre Consultation with Agencies was undertaken. The purpose of this was to obtain preliminary information about the potential environmental effects that may result from the project. This required that the proponent understand the proximity of the project to environmental components. During this period, the proponent obtained the locations of environmental features and an understanding of the geography of project location. The data obtained during this period is presented in Appendix B Environmental Components Map. Further environmental study will inform the proponent s understanding of the existing environmental components and thus the potential environmental effects as the REA progresses. The map depicts the following known environmental components: Natural Heritage Resources o Waterbodies o Wetlands o Bird Nesting Sites o Wildlife Habitat o Woodlots o Valley Lands o Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest o Environmentally Significant Areas o Conservation Reserves o Provincial Parks Noise Receptors Provincial and Local Roads Areas Protected under Provincial Plans & Policies (where present) General Summary of Environmental Effects The potential effects of constructing, operating, maintaining, and decommissioning a wind energy project can typically be mitigated through known and accepted practices. Other REA documents will describe how this project will reduce or mitigate these potential environmental concerns. The Project Description Report will identify and describe which environmental effects that may result from the project. This will inform the following studies and guide the proponent to addressing well known and potential environmental effects. The potential environmental impact concerns that may result from the project are typical of concerns related to wind energy facilities in agricultural areas. These concerns generally relate to three Environmental Components: natural heritage, the socio economic environment, cultural heritage and archaeological resources. 7 of 15

12 1.8.3 Role of Consultation in Determination of Effects Wainfleet Wind Energy Project Consultations with land owners, federal and provincial agencies, and utilities will take place to inform and describe these potential environmental effects. Consultations are an essential tool to ensuring that developers obtain environmental data that contributes to our understanding of the impacts of wind energy development. The analysis of these environmental and social effects, amongst several others, along with proposed mitigation and monitoring plans will be discussed in detail in the forthcoming reports required subject to the REA process Summary Table of Potential Environmental Effects Table 1, found on the following pages, describes the Potential Negative Environmental Effects of the Proposed Wind Energy project. The table divides these effects into environmental components and provides additional information where applicable. The purpose of Table 1 is to: provide guidance on directing future environmental assessment of the project identify necessary environmental studies and reporting requirements identify consultation avenues and provide fodder for future discussions with stakeholders identify potential negative environmental effects of the project and offer a lens from which to approach each environmental component offer a framework to organizing future environmental protection and mitigation measures. 8 of 15

13 Wainfleet Wind Energy Project Table 1 Potential Negative Environmental Effects of the Proposed Wind Energy Project Environmental Component Additional Information Potential Effects Natural Heritage Resources Natural heritage resources include features such as wetlands, waterbodies, woodlots, valleylands, wildlife habitat, provincial parks, and conservation areas. Each of these features may be categorized into one or more of the Environmental Sub components of Waterbodies, Fish and Aquatic Habitat, and Wildlife and Terrestrial Habitat. Waterbodies This includes all water resources found within the study area, including those found on the surface, underground, or at seepage areas. Waterbodies include lakes, permanent streams, intermittent streams, seepage areas, and ground water. Fish and Aquatic Habitat This includes all fish and aquatic habitat including those of a seasonal or intermittent nature. This includes all areas where plants, animals and other aquatic organisms live or have the potential to live and find adequate amounts of food, water, shelter, and space to sustain their population, including an area where a species concentrates at a vulnerable point in its life cycle (i.e. spawning or reproduction) and an area that is important to a migratory or nonmigratory species. Wildlife and Terrestrial Habitat This includes all areas where terrestrial plants, animals and other organism live or have the potential It is not anticipated that a Waterbodies Report will be required No construction is proposed within surface water resources The project will not impact a ground water seepage area The project is not anticipated to involve the storage of or consumption of water The project will not require the alteration of surface water runoff patterns Sedimentation and erosion control measures will be included in the Construction Plan A Natural Heritage Assessment Report will be prepared as part of this study. The project must be setback from water courses and thus fish habitat No shoreline/riparian works are anticipated as part of this project Large quantities of toxic or hazardous materials are not typically found in the proposed facilities; small qualities are self contained inside wind turbines or securely stored in a designated facility Wildlife and Habitat studies will be undertaken as part of the Natural Heritage Assessment; these studies will conform to MNR The project may effect surface water quality and quantities of flow If required, dewatering activities may impact natural heritage or water resources The project may impact shoreline/riparian water quality and quantity An unexpected oil or lubricant spill may impact water quality Materials associated with turbines, including oils and lubricants may be spilled during construction, operation, maintenance, or decommissioning and impact water resources, fish, and aquatic habitat The project could cause habitat loss or mortality to wildlife, including: Birds; 9 of 15

14 Wainfleet Wind Energy Project Table 1 Potential Negative Environmental Effects of the Proposed Wind Energy Project Environmental Component Additional Information Potential Effects to live and find adequate amounts requirements. Bats; of food, water, shelter, and space to The project facilities will be sustain their population, including Amphibians; an area where a species located away from significant Other flora and fauna concentrates at a vulnerable point wildlife habitat (including in its life cycle and an area that is known bat hibernacula) and important to a migratory or nonmigratory species. designated natural areas The project will not impact potential habitat for species at risk The project will not impact vegetation species at risk Socio Economic Environment The Socio Economic Environment includes: land uses and resources; areas protected under provincial plans and policies; noise, air, odour and dust; provincial and local infrastructure; public health and safety; aesthetics and landscape; economy and livelihoods; and social justice. Land Use and Resources (including, Aboriginal Land Uses and Resources) Refers to land use as defined in the Planning Act (R.S.O. 1990). Includes all lands with in 300 meters of the project location. Land uses and resources include: aggregate resources, landfill sites, petroleum wells, recreation areas, forest resources, aboriginal land claims, telecommunication (radio/radar), transportation, aerodromes, etc. Areas Protected under Provincial Plans and Policies Includes those areas that are defined under the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan Area, Niagara Escarpment Plan Area, Lake Simcoe Watershed Plan Area, and Green Belt Act. Consultation with landowners, municipalities, and any aboriginal parties will take place during this study. The project takes place on lands that are owned, leased, or permitted to the proponent The existing land use for the project location is generally agricultural in nature The project will conform to the land uses permitted under provincial and municipal requirements Aboriginal land uses may be found in, or proximity to, the study area The proposed project location does not possess potential for contamination The Niagara Escarpment Plan Area remains outside of the study area. Consultation with the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority and Regional Municipality of Niagara will take place during this study. The project could have a negative effect on residential commercial, or institutional land uses in proximity to the site The project may impact aboriginal land uses; consultation with Indian and Northern Affairs Canada may be required. The project may impact telecommunications and aerodrome facilities; consultation with Transport Canada will be required. The project is not anticipated to impact the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan Area, Niagara Escarpment Plan Area, Lake Simcoe Watershed Plan Area, and Green Belt Act regulated areas. Noise A Noise Assessment Study The project may emit noise 10 of 15

15 Wainfleet Wind Energy Project Table 1 Potential Negative Environmental Effects of the Proposed Wind Energy Project Environmental Component Additional Information Potential Effects Refers to noise receptors as a location at which a discharged noise from a renewable energy generation facility is received. O.Reg 359/09 subsection (4) defines this term. will be conducted as part of this study. Wind turbines are known to produce noise and a noise assessment will be undertaken as part of the REA process Setbacks from sensitive noise receptors are required as part of the REA; wind facilities may not be located in proximity to these receptors and effect sensitive noise receptors Air, Odour, Dust Includes emissions in to the atmosphere that include: nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, suspended particulates, emissions of green house gasses (GHGs: CO2, Methane), and other odours and dust. Provincial and Local Infrastructure Public Health and Safety Aesthetics and Landscape Refers to the visual aesthetics and landscape character of the land. Economy and Livelihoods Refers to the economic activities and employment found in the study area and includes the cultural nature of employment in shaping On a net basis the project will enhance air quality by reducing GHG emissions from alternative energy sources MTO and local municipalities will be contacted to ensure that provincial and local transportation infrastructure requirements are followed. The project will comply with provincial health and safety laws and standards While rural in nature, the landscape of the study area is largely dominated by industrial/commercial agriculture The project will produce economic activity in Niagara Region and in Ontario The project is a community During construction and decommissioning of the facility air quality will be temporarily negatively affected by emissions produced from construction machinery. These emissions include elevated levels of nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, suspended particulates, emissions of GHGs (CO2, Methane), and other odours and dust. During construction and decommissioning provincial and local roads may be effected by the movement of construction equipment and turbine materials Local water, sanitary, and stormwater facilities will not be impacted. Public health and safety will not be impacted by the proposed undertaking The project may effect the aesthetics of the landscape by transforming it to a more industrial vista The project may effect the production of economic activity in the area or compete with local industries 11 of 15

16 Wainfleet Wind Energy Project Table 1 Potential Negative Environmental Effects of the Proposed Wind Energy Project Environmental Component Additional Information Potential Effects human identities. power project and the proponent is organized in Niagara Region Social Justice Refers to the pursuit of a fair and just society. This is characterized by a proportionate distribution of resources where no social group exploits another. Significant net imbalances may diminish the socioeconomic goals of the project. The project is a community power project where the proponents live and work in close proximity to the proposed facilities The proposal seeks to provide a net benefit to the local, regional, and provincial socio economic environment The project may provide a disproportionate distribution of resources to one social group Cultural Heritage and Archaeological Resources Archaeology and Human History These refer to sites within the meaning of O.Reg 170/04 made under the Ontario Heritage Act. These include the historical and material remains of past human activities and inform us about past conditions A Stage 1 Archaeological Assessment is proposed to determine the archaeological potential before any facilities are constructed The study will conform to MOTC requirements. The project may disturb archaeological remains which speak to the human history of the area Heritage Resources Refers to real property that is of a cultural heritage value or interest and may include buildings, structures, landscape, or other real property. Cultural Heritage Assessment is proposed to determine cultural value before any facilities are constructed The study will conform to MOTC requirements. The proposal does not include any proposed modification or impacts to known protected properties or heritage resources The project may effect protected properties or cultural heritage resources 12 of 15

17 References Wainfleet Wind Energy Project Ontario Ministry of the Environment (MOE), Technical Bulletin One. Guidance for preparing the Project Description Report, as part of an application under O.Reg.359/09. Draft Document posted for public comment on the Environmental Registry March 1, Queen s Printer for Ontario. PIBS 7436e. Ontario Ministry of the Environment (MOE), Ontario Regulation 359/09 s Under Part V.).1. of the Act. O.Reg.359/09. Consolidation Period: September 24, 2009 to September 30, Filed October 1, Queen s Printer for Ontario. 13 of 15

18 Wainfleet Wind Energy Project Appendix A Study Area Map N 14 of 15

19 Wainfleet Wind Energy Project Appendix B Environmental Components Map Legend Wainfleet Study Area Noise Receptors Meteorological Tower Roads Waterbodies Watercourses Forests & Woodlots Tower Wetlands! Bird Nesting Sites Area of Natural & Scientific Interest Wintering Area Wildlife Staging Area Environmentally Significant Area NGO Nature Reserve Conservation Reserves Provincial Parks Indian Reserve ,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 Meters 1:40, of 16

20 Wainfleet Wind Energy Project Appendix C Aerial Map 16 of 16